Dayara Bugyal Trek 2025 | Package, Itinerary, Cost & All

Region: Uttarakhand

Base Camp: Raithal

Duration: 4 Days

Altitude: 12,100 ft

Grade: Easy

Distance: 22 km

Dayara Bugyal Trek Description

Dayara Bugyal Trek is the best beginner-friendly and multi-day hiking trail located in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand. It’s an all-time favorite meadow trek that can be done in all seasons of the year. Mostly beautiful in winter for snow-covered trails and heavenly snowscapes, it’s a truly rewarding experience for all trekkers looking for winter trekking destinations. In spring, when the snow starts to melt, the blooming flowers of this high-altitude meadow (Bugyal) enhance the beauty of the trail, making it look like a perfect paradise, especially for nature enthusiasts.

At most places in Uttarakhand, “Bugyal” is commonly used and stands for high altitude “Alpine Meadows”.

Starting from Raithal Village (1800m), it’s a gradual ascent of a 10 km long trail away, which takes about 2 – 3 days to reach the top of the Dayara Bugyal at the highest altitude of 3,657m (12,000ft) above sea level. The entire trek route can be completed within 4 days from the starting point of Raithal or Barsu and ends at the same point in a loop or circuit. The trek passes through the Goat Village, densely forested areas of Oak and Rhododendron, several water streams, the beautiful lake of Barnala, amazing campsites of Gui and Chilapada, and finally reaches the majestic meadows of Dayara.

Walking along this moderately easy trail offers a pleasant experience for all types of trekkers. Whether you’re an adventure enthusiast, nature lover, birdwatcher, solo traveler, or seeking a spiritual retreat, this trail is perfect for you. Also, the trail is well-maintained and properly marked, which makes it easy to navigate and eliminates worries of getting lost.

Dayara Bugyal is a high altitude meadow located at an elevation of more than 11,000 feet and expanding up to 12,645 feet. Starting from the Himalayan village of Raithal via Barnala and Gui campsite, as you continue to walk forward with enjoying the soft grassland, you reach the highest point of the meadow, Bakaria Top, from where the views of Himalayan peaks and valleys are unmatched. You see the Mt Bandarpoonch with a close view. Apart from this, the location offers rewarding and breathtaking panoramic views of famous Himalayan peaks in the Garhwal Himalayas such as Kala Nag (Black Peak), Srikanth, Draupadi Ka Danda (DKD), Janoli and the peaks of Gangotri mountain range.

Famous for its rich flora and fauna, Dayara Bugyal is a paradise in every season. During summer, the meadows bloom with vibrant alpine flowers like Marsh Marigolds, Daisies, Blue Poppies and Primroses, turning the landscape into a colorful canvas. The meadow is also a haven for bird lovers, where they can spot birds like the Himalayan Monal, Blue Magpie, Himalayan Bulbul, Long-tailed Shrike and Grey Treepie, among others. The meadow is surrounded by dense forests of deodar, oak and rhododendron, which add to the scenic beauty of the destination.

View from Raithal Village — ^{View from Raithal}

Raithal, which serves as the base camp of Dayara Bugyal Trek, is also known as Goat Village. It’s an opportunity to explore the religious significance and some unique historical heritage sites of the region, including the ancient “Panch Pura” and traditional temples of “Bhagwati Devi” and “Someshwar Devta“. Also, every year in August, villagers of Raithal and Barsu celebrate a unique Butter Holi Festival dedicated to Lord Krishna and to promote healthy and rich vegetation of the Dayara meadows, which are the main source of food for their cattle.

As a tour operator, Himalayan Dream Treks (HDT) encourages trekkers to embark on this fantastic hiking adventure. We are providing all the required amenities for a successful trekking & camping experience including essential services like transportation, accommodation, food, water supply, camping & safety equipment, trail permit, trekking guide, hiking gear, a basic first aid kit, etc. Also here you will know the booking options we provide for a customized/private service package with the help of a dedicated travel expert that is perfectly suitable for various age groups including families with young children, senior citizens, and corporate employees. So why not set on this journey and enjoy the most of Uttarakhand’s natural beauty?

Let’s dive deep into Dayara Bugyal Trek with our perfectly planned out and detailed itinerary that will provide you with all the insights into this trekking route including terrain sections, hiking difficulty, walking distance, the best time to embark, cultural significance, flora & fauna, photo gallery, how to reach the base camp, trek route map, weather & temperature, altitude sickness and how to deal with them, how to get fit, backpacking & essential gear to carry, package, cost, booking process, and all the things that you must know for a thrilling and pleasant hiking experience in the Mountains.

Dayara Bugyal Trek Itinerary

Drive Distance: 183 km

Drive Time: 7-8 hours

Altitude: 7,100 ft

On the first day of the Dayara Bugyal Trek, we will start our trek from Dehradun to Raithal early in the morning. The scenic drive takes us through the road alongside the Bhagirathi River. We will cross Landour and Uttarkashi as we drive.

After a few hours of driving, we will stop at Pahadi Dhaba and enjoy the Grahwali Thali. Moriana Top (Tingling Point) is also a major attraction on this route. We will have clear views of peaks like Bandarpunch, Black Peak, Srikanth and Gangotri Peaks are clearly visible from here. On clear days, you can even see Chaukhamba or Nanda Devi from here.

The drive then takes us towards Chinyalisaur from where we can have a clear view of Tehri Dam reservoir. And then, our journey towards Uttarkashi begins. In Uttarkashi, take time to visit Kashi Vishwanath temple and purchase any necessary items. Remember, this is the last town where you will have the ATM service, so it is recommended to withdraw the essential cash from here.

By the evening time, we will already be reaching Raithal. Tonight we will stay at Raithal enjoying a local meal.

Sunrise-view-from-Dehardun-before-our-dayara-bugyal-trek — Sunrise near Doiwala, Dehradun

Moriana-Top-during-the-dayara-bugyal-trekking — Sunrise near Doiwala, Dehradun

Trek Distance: 5 km

Trek Time: 4-5 hours

Altitude: 9,756 ft

Altitude Gain: 2,656 ft

We will start our day with a warm breakfast and then prepare for the trek to Gui. Click the photo on the Dayara Bugyal Trek entry point and start towards Gui. In between you will find Nag Devta temple, Water Point, and a tree dedicated to Naag Devta, where locals and trekkers stick their coins and offer several religious assets.

The 5 kilometer trek through lush green forests, which offers a close view of the local flora and fauna. The forest area gets beautiful and colorful during the Spring season. The rhododendron forests are in full bloom during spring offering trekkers a very relaxing journey.

The trail is well-maintained, so there will not be any issues in navigating. After a few hours of trekking, we will finally reach Gui, where we will rest overnight. Upon reaching Gui, enjoy the sunset over Srikanth and Gangotri Peaks.

Gui_campsite_covered_in_Snow_during_winter — Gui covered in Snow

Sunset_view from_our_Gui Campsite — Gui covered in Snow

Trek Distance: 12 km

Trek Time: 6-7 hours

Altitude: 12,000 ft

Altitude Gain & Loss: 2,244 ft

Today, we will begin our journey from Gui to Dayara Top. The trek spans approximately 12 kilometers (to and fro)

The trail stretches towards Dayara Bugyal after crossing Chilapada. The alpine meadows and the grasslands will welcome you with its beautiful surroundings, which will be very attractive to watch during the daytime.

After a last push, we will finally reach Dayara Top via a steep ascent. From the top, you will experience the 360 views of the peaks like Bandarpunch, Kala Naag, Srikanth, and Gangotri ranges. The whole Dayara Bugyal is visible from Dayara top.

Dayara looks different in every season. During spring, summer, and monsoon who bugyal gets covered with grass and wildflowers. Huge herds of Sheep will be seen during June end week and the whole monsoon. In Autumn bugyal gets orangish in color and during winter snow covers the whole landscape making it a perfect place for snow trekking, and skiing.

We will spend a few hours exploring Dayara Top and then return to Gui Campsite in the evening.

Gangotri_ranges visible_from_Dayara Bugyal — Gangotri ranges visible from Dayara Bugyal

Gangoti_Ranges From_Bakria_Forest — Gangotri ranges visible from Dayara Bugyal

Descend: 5 km

Time: 3 hours

Altitude: 7,100 ft

Altitude Loss: 2,656 ft

Drive Distance: 183 km

Drive Time: 7-8 hours

Today, we will bid farewell to Gui and then return to Raithal. We will descend through the 5 kilometer trail at around 2 to 3 hours of descent.

We will retrace the trails through forest and then reach Raithal crossing the same path we traversed before. After reaching Raithal, rest a bit and we will then drive back to Dehradun, which takes around 6 to 7 hours.

After reaching Dehradun, you can travel to your hometown on the same day or rest to visit places in Dehradun and Rishikesh or do many activities such as water rafting, bungee jumping, and exploring the waterfalls in Rishikesh.

Note | Return Journey: Plan your return journey after 9 PM. Sometimes due to traffic, we can get late, that’s why it’s advisable to have your return tickets booked after 9 PM

Dayara Bugyal Trek Package

Price Inclusion

Stay: Accommodation is included for all days of the trek. Tents will be provided on a triple-sharing basis. Single and double sharing available at extra cost.
Transport: Transportation from Dehradun to Raithal and back is covered.
Meals: All meals are provided from dinner at Raithal on Day 1 to Day 4 breakfast.
Trek Equipment: All essential trek equipment is included, such as sleeping bags, kitchen and dining tents, utensils, mattresses, personal tents, toilet tents, and crampons (if needed).
Forest Entry and Permits: All required fuel charges, tolls, forest entry fees, and permits are covered.
Trek Staff: A qualified, professional team, including a mountaineering-certified trek leader, guide, cook, and support staff, will accompany you.
Emergency Kit: First aid medical kits, oxygen cylinders, and stretchers are provided for safety.
Trek Certificate & HDT Badges: Receive a trek certificate and HDT badges to celebrate your adventure.
GST (5%): Included in the package cost.

Price Exclusion

Meals during Transfer: Meals are not included while traveling to and from the trek starting points.
Emergency Evacuations: Any charges related to emergency evacuation are not included.
Personal Expenses: Any meals or accommodations outside of the provided itinerary or additional services not listed in the inclusions.
Personal Luggage Carrying: Charges for mules or porters to offload personal luggage are not included in the package.

Check the booking procedure here, including details on booking deposits, payment terms, and the cancellation policy.

Complete Information of Dayara Bugyal

In this section you can find each and every detail about this trek, whether you’re finding information or booking this trek, you can get valuable insights here.

The best time to visit Dayara Bugyal Trek is from December to April. December (winter) offers a unique experience that is ideal for adventure enthusiasts, while April (spring) is perfect for nature lovers and families with young children. This is the time when a pleasant climate, favorable weather conditions & temperatures, easy-to-navigate route, amazing clearings around the trail, blooming meadows with vibrant flora (in spring), and meadows covered with a white snow blanket turn into a breathtaking winter wonderland (in winter), make the time ideal for trekking to Dayara Bugyal.

If we talk about scenery during this time, forests are laden with snow, and the view of the snow-capped mountains surrounding the trail appears stunning and fills one with calm vibes. Although it is mostly cloudy and the sky clears only a few times a week, the bright snow-covered landscape is sure to bring you immense pleasure in nature.

It is a good time for families with young children. In April (spring), it is an opportunity to witness the real beauty of Mother Nature. You can see the famous Rhododendron of Uttarakhand in its full bloom and other species of blooming flowers with soft grass in the meadows of Dayara. The weather temperature is completely manageable and only requires a little preparation related to clothing and other essentials.

Also, a favorite time for trekking might be different for different trekkers. It all depends on the trekkers’ expectations, priorities, and activities they are willing to do at the destination. Considering the weather conditions and climate patterns, below is a piece of detailed information on the Dayara Bugyal Trek in various seasons:

Rhododendron_blooms_during_the_spring — Rhododendron blooms during the spring

Spring starts from mid-March and lasts till the end of April in India. It is considered one of the most stable seasons in India, making it an ideal timeframe to do this trek. Spring starts right after the end of the winter season when the temperature gradually starts to rise.

The snow starts to melt and the greenery returns in the surroundings, allowing trekkers to have the serene beauty during the journey. The forest changes its leaves and wildflowers start to sprout, which gives the colorful vibes to the environment. If you are fond of photography and videography, Dayara Bugyal during the Spring season might be the top destination for you.

The forested area in the Gui region is covered with rhododendron petals, which is, of course, one of the major attractions of this trek. Similarly, the frozen streams start melting creating beautiful downstreams.

Considering the temperature, the average temperature in Dayara Bugyal ranges from 0 degrees Celsius to 16 degrees Celsius. The sky is clear with fewer clouds, which offers a clear view of the Gangotri and Saraswati mountain ranges.

Cattle_grazing_at_Dayara — Cattle grazing at Dayara

Summers in Dayara start from the month of May and remain till June end. Temperature during this time ranges from 20 degrees Celsius to 5 degrees Celsius. All the snow gets melted by this time, the whole bugyal turns green and with that locals of Raithal move their sheep, goats, buffalos, and cows to Dayara Bugyal for grazing and the upcoming monsoon season. Due to forest fires and dust particles, views of mountain ranges are not properly visible in summer.

view_of_mt_Bandarpuch_From_Gui_campsite_(Month_November) — Bandarpuch From Gui (Month November)

The Autumn Season, which starts from September till mid-November is another great time to go for the Dayara Bugyal Trek. The weather and climate patterns are almost the same as the Spring season, offering you a moderate temperature and clear environment.

After the end of the monsoon season, the environment becomes clean and crisp, allowing trekkers to have the perfect views of the surrounding landscapes. The lush green forests enriching the vegetation of oak, maple, and rhododendron trees are the contributing aspects of this destination’s beauty.

By late November, Dayara’s landscape starts to turn brown due to a lack of moisture and dipping temperatures. So, trekking during the peak Autumn season is recommended if you are opting for scenic beauty. The temperature in this season averages from 15 degrees Celsius to 1 degrees Celsius. In the meantime, the Garhwal Himalayas offer you peaceful vibes due to clear surroundings.

Gui_campsite_covered_in_Snow_during_the_winter_months — Gui campsite covered in Snow

Winter on Dayara Bugyal Trek starts in November and ends in March mid. The temperature during winter ranges from 15 degrees Celsius to -5 degrees or below. The trails, streams and lakes start to freeze, so navigating to the destination might be challenging. During the months of November and January, some rain showers in between bring some snowfall but proper snowfall happens during mid-January and mid-March.

Temperatures during December are a little bit tough to manage, and the path becomes a little bit difficult to navigate, but beginners can still complete this trek. It might be not suitable for young children, but absolutely perfect for adventurous trekkers who want a thrilling experience of hiking.

With harsh weather, preparation with 5 layers of clothing and other essentials is important. In the mountains, if you are ready to handle every condition related to weather and fitness, you are going to experience hiking 200 times more than usual.

Being said, the winter season stands as an ideal time to enjoy the surroundings, snow trails and frozen lakes. The Gui lakes get frozen and the Garhwal Himalayas feature thick snow layers, which are amazing to witness. People also consider doing Kedarkantha in winter but Dayara seems a better option now. It’s not as crowded as Kedarkantha, it’s beginner-friendly and provides a better experience. You can read more of Dayara vs Kedarkantha blog.

Off season treks in Dayara Bugyal is done during the monsoon. However, the weather conditions do not align with the safety of the trekkers, which is why not many trekkers opt for this option.

Dayara_Bugyal_During_Monsoon_Photo_by_Bhuvi_Uniyal — Dayara Bugyal Trek During Monsoon. Photo by Bhuvi Uniyal

During monsoon, the temperature ranges from 17 degrees to 2 degrees. The whole Dayara Bugyal Tek gets covered in grass and wildflowers, multiple water streams provide various water points along the trail.

But the Garhwal Himalayas are not visible as they are covered in clouds and mist this season. If you want to enjoy the rich diversity of Flora, Fauna and Butter Holi Festival, then monsoon season can be considered. Just make sure to check for landslide and roadblock updates before starting your journey.

Dayara Bugyal Trek in Uttarakhand is of easy grade when it comes to the different levels of trekking. It is considered as a beginner-friendly trek with its easy trails and access to transportation.

The highest point during this trek is at around 12,000 feet, covering a total distance of around 20 kilometers from Raithal to Raithal.

Considering the altitude of 12,000 ft meters above sea level, you need not worry about altitude related issues like Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), HACE (High Altitude Cerebral Edema), or HAPE (High Altitude Pulmonary Edema). So whether children below 15 years or senior citizens above 55 years old, Dayara Bugyal is one of the perfect destinations in India.

Talking about the trekking trail, they are well-maintained. Also, the landscapes are not too steep, making it accessible to all age groups with any form of physical capabilities. This trek is a fantastic choice for beginners looking to explore the natural beauty of the Himalayas without facing overly challenging terrain.

One of the most important things is that you will get to enjoy the beauty of nature with sightseeing opportunities of the Himalayas without even reaching over 4,000 or 5,000 meters above sea level. You don’t have to face the challenging terrain, treacherous landscapes, and hazardous weather patterns to enjoy the most during this trek.

Treks are all about fun, adventure, finding yourself, etc, but only for those who are mentally and physically fit. Because activities like treks, especially a Himalayan trek, challenge you on different levels in unimaginable ways and situations.

Dayara Bugyal trek falls under easy to moderate level trek depending on your chosen time of the year. In summer, spring & autumn, you will find this trek easy. Known as one of the best winter treks in India, the snow takes the difficulty a level higher, making the preparation mentally and physically more important.

Being fit is like being equipped with the right weapons for a battle. With a fit body and strong mind, you can make the most out of your Dayara Bugyal trek.

The trek difficulty dictates your level of fitness and preparations for it. As mentioned above, it can be an easy and easy to moderate level trek so prepare accordingly.

We take acclimatisation seriously and make sure that our trekkers get proper time to acclimatise and rest in between. This is neither a very long trek nor at a higher altitude, so we will only trek for a short number of kilometers every day, giving your body the time it needs.

In the beginning, the ascend from Raithal to Gui campsite can be challenging as it is going to be your first day and changing altitude. The good part is that the trail is easy to follow, and the terrain is manageable, even for kids. Facilitated with a proper workout regime you can really take note of the surrounding environment and not waste time in catching your breath.

For summer, spring, and autumn seasons, you can follow an easy-level fitness routine.

For Winter, you have to workout more because of the added difficult factors like cold climate, snow, and fog. The trails will have some snow in the beginning which will be hard in nature and hence slippery too. Moving forward, at the higher level the snow may reach your knee or waist level, and walking on powdery snow takes the test of your balancing skills, stamina level, endurance, and overall strength of your body.

An easy level and weekend treks require a basic fitness level, where you should focus on building your stamina and strength. Start with walking/running and include a 45-minute to 1-hour workout (cardio + strength training).
A level-up in a fitness routine is required for an easy to moderate level trek like start aiming to run 5 km in under 40 mins, and strength training is a must.

Mental preparation includes thorough research of the trek you want to do or decide to. Understand the terrain, difficulty level, and the ways to get fit for it, look up for sudden situations that may happen, and how to tackle them. Being prepared gives you an edge to keep calm & handle a difficult situation.

1. Exercises to achieve the goal

Cardiovascular Training: Running, cycling, and swimming to boost stamina.
Strength Training: Focus on leg exercises like squats, lunges, and step-ups for endurance.
Core Strength: Planks, mountain climbers, and Russian twists to maintain balance on uneven trails.
Flexibility Exercises: Stretching, yoga, and dynamic warm-ups to prevent injuries.
Mental Conditioning: Visualisation techniques, breathing exercises, and meditation to strengthen focus and manage stress on difficult days.

Tip: For moderate to difficult-level treks, practise exercises with weights. Seek professional advice accordingly.

2. Extra Tips related to the diet, muscle recovery, and healthy lifestyle routine

Diet: Incorporate proteins like lentils, chicken, eggs, tofu, etc for fast recovery after a strenuous trek. Whole grains like wheat, quinoa, barley, etc for sustained energy, and leafy greens like spinach, bitter guard, and any seasonal veggie for those extra nutrients and building the immunity system.

Muscle Recovery: Plan rest days and add stretching, relaxing yoga poses or foam rolling after every workout.

3. Lifestyle Routine:

Limit alcohol and caffeine consumption.
Start sleeping up to 8 hours.
Stay hydrated – drink 2 to 3 liters of water. To incorporate more nutrients, including coconut water, fruit, and vegetable juices.

Altitude Sickness happens when your body cannot adjust to lower oxygen levels at higher altitudes. This happens mainly because your body didn’t have enough time to acclimatise to a higher altitude or not enough time to get used to lower oxygen levels.

How to Prevent

Gradual Ascent: Climb slowly to give your body time to adjust.
Hydration: Drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration.
Rest and Sleep: Ensure ample rest, especially as you reach higher camps.
Avoid Alcohol: Limit alcohol and caffeine, which can lead to dehydration.

What to do

Most Important – Inform your trek leader as well-trained leaders and experience they can assess the situation better and find solutions faster.

What trek leader may suggest. Trekkers without agency should also know these instructions

Stop and Rest: Pause your trek to recover.
Descend if Necessary: Descend immediately to Raithal Basecamp, our team with the vehicle and necessary help will be there for further action.
Stay Hydrated: Drink water and avoid strenuous activity.
Seek Medical Help: After descending our team will take you to the nearest hospitals if needed. If solo, then descend and seek the closest medical help.
Nearest Hospital Details – District Hospital Uttarkashi
Address – PCHV+W38, near Vishwanath Chowk, Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand 249193
Contact Number – Dr. B.S. Rawat, 9557900198

45-60 Ltr Bag Pack With Rain Cover & Comfortable Straps
20-30 Ltr Day Pack with Rain Cover
Head Torch
Waterproof Trekking Shoes
Trek Pant
1-2 Trekking Pole
Down Jacket
1 Poncho or Rain Coat
Tiffin Box for Packed Lunches
1 Hydration Pack / Hot & Cold Water Bottle Like Borosil & Milton

1 Pair of Waterproof Gloves
1 Pair of Woollen Gloves
1 Sun Cap
1 Head Torch
1 Woollen Cap
1 Balaclava
1 Neck Gaiters (Buff)
Sunglasses (UV Protected)
Tiffin Box for Packed Lunch

2/3 Full Sleeves (Non-Cotton)
1 Full Fleece T-Shirt
1 Fleece Jacket (Woollen Or Sweater)
1 Down Feather/Hollofil Jacket
1 Waterproof Jacket/Poncho
1 Pair Thermal Inners (Upper And Lower)
2 Trek Pants (Avoid Shorts & Denim Pants)

1 Waterproof & High Ankle Trekking Shoes
1 Pair Of Floaters
2 Pairs Of Cotton Socks
1 Pair Of Woollen Socks

Hand Sanitizer
Sunscreen Lotion
Toothbrush And Toothpaste
Toilet Paper And Wet Wipes
Quick Dry Towel/s
Lip Balm & Antibacterial Powder
Moisturizer
Snacks, Energy Bar, Dry Fruits, ORS, etc.
Personal Medical Kit

Along with transportation, accommodation, meals, guides, and permits, these are some other essential gear included in the package of Dayara Bugyal Trek. Trekkers who book the trek do not need to pay extra for these gear or items.

Flight is the quickest and easiest means to reach the base camp of Dayara Bugyal Trek in Uttarakhand. Booking a flight to this destination is not a hard job, you can get a flight from most metro cities in India.

The nearest airport to Dayara Bugyal is Dehradun’s Jolly Grant Airport which is located approximately 25 kilometers from the city center. Several flight operators like Air India, Akasa Air, Vistara, and others operate flights to Dehradun, which makes your transportation easy and comfortable.

It is recommended to book a flight at least a month before traveling since the last moment flight booking is comparatively higher than the standard price. Considering the cost, we recommend you to take flights to Delhi, capital of India first. From there, you can take UTC, HRTC, buses, railway or hire a taxi to reach Dehradun.

Dehradun is one of the major cities in India and it is well-connected to other cities by train. So traveling here via train is another easiest way.

Your train transportation is served by the Dehradun Railway Station, which brings you directly to the destination from your hometown. You also can opt for Haridwar Railway Station to reach Dehradun. It is advised to make advanced bookings for trains but there are no issues in getting the service from any places like Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and more.

Road trip is one of the most exciting journeys to reach Dehradun and start the Dayara Bugyal Trek. It should not be any challenging matter since the city is connected with other major cities like Delhi and Chandigarh by National Highways.

It might be time consuming but the serene beauty of the Himalayan foothills will offer you a enjoyable experience.

Raithal is the point where we start our Dayara Bugyal Trek in Uttarakhand. It is approximately 183 kilometers away from Dehradun, which takes around 6 to 7 hours by public transportation. To reach Raithal you have to reach Uttarkashi first.

The bus to Uttarkashi leaves early in the morning around 5:30 am from Dehradun Hill station. You can also book your ticket online via the UTC portal. The average cost of the ticket is around 350 to 400 INR. Shared taxi option is also available.

If you are traveling via taxi, you will be charged around 400 to 500. You can hire a taxi from Rispana Pul and Parade Ground to Uttarkashi. Upon reaching Uttarkashi, you can rent another taxi to Raithal from Uttarkashi Taxi Stand. You must pay 100 to 150 INR to hire the taxi.

We have explained in detail how to reach Dayara Bugyal Basecamp. Give it a read!

The route map of Dayara Bugyal Trek usually follows these steps: Raithal → Gui Campsite → Dayara Bugyal Top → Back to Gui → Back to Raithal.

The route is well plotted on the map below, showing the distance and elevation gain and loss along the trek.

Download Dayara Bugyal GPX file below.

Dayara Bugyal Trail GPX File Download

RAITHAL WEATHER

Interested in learning 8 surprising facts about Dayara Bugyal? Read more here

Dayara Bugyal is not only the destination for natural sightseeing and excitement but it is also a place that carries significant cultural and historical marks. Raithal, the starting point of this trek, is one of the places carrying traditional cultural experiences with Garhwali tradition. There are several temples dedicated to Hindu Goddess Bhagawati Devi and Someshwar Devta. With deep-rooted spirituality of the region, these cultural landmarks also stand as the major attractions of the Dayara Bugyal trek. Similarly, other deities worshipped here are Naag Devta, Jeetu Bagdwal, and Kandar Devta.

Someshwar_Devta_during_Butter_Festival — Celebration of the traditional festival of Someshwar Devta

In the meantime, this place is also rich in historical landmarks. You can visit a five story building, Panch Pura, which has a history of over 500 years. History mentions that Panch Pura was the residence of the legendary ‘BHAD Rana Gambhir Singh.’ This masterpiece is built up of massive rocks, wooden logs and is based on Koti Banal architecture, which is an earthquake-resistant architectural style.

Panchpura_in_Raihal — Panchpura in Raihal

Apart from that, you can participate in the Butter Festival of Dayara Bugyal. It is also called Andhuri Utsav in the local language. This festival is celebrated every August, and features activities with milk products like butter and buttermilk. And surely with its unique significance, it has been able to attract thousands of tourists every year.

Butter_Festival_in Dayara_Bugyal — Celebration of Butter Holi Festival at Dayara Meadows

Dayara Bugyal is undoubtedly the home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, that makes this place very unique and vibrant.

Let’s explore them in detail:

Flora

Rhododendron Forest: If you travel during the Spring season, the vibrant colors of the rhododendron forest will attract you for sure. There are two types; classic red and pink rhododendrons found in this region. During your trek, you can not only enjoy the colorful environment of the blossoming flowers but also get Burans Juice in the village.

Ancient Oaks and Deodars: The trekking trail to this destination is not only dominated by colorful rhododendron trees but also with oaks and deodars. These trees in the lush forests stand tall to the sky and offer shade during the afternoon trek.

Grasslands: Trail to Dayara Bugyal is a mix of vegetation. There are lots of forest areas while the grasslands also come in the major attraction roles. The green meadows in the grasslands offer a perfect place for pastureland. Not only that, these grasslands are considered one of the major attractions of the tourists traveling to Dayara Bugyal.

Fauna

Monal: The Monal Bird is the state bird of Uttarakhand and it is one of the endangered species as well. It belongs to the pheasant family which comes in mixed color patterns that attract most human eyes.

Ibex and Forest Sheep: Forests on the Dayara Bugyal Trek are also a common habitat for ibex and forest sheep. The grasslands around the trail are the pasturelands for these wild animals. Encountering them during your trek will undoubtedly be a great experience.
Brown Bears and Leopards: Brown bears and leopards are another endangered animal species found in Dayara Bugyal of Uttarakhand. So it might not be a common thing to spot their presence during your trek. And most importantly, they avoid human activities and encroachment, so it is hard to spot them during this journey. But if you encounter them, do not disturb them.

Gallery

View of Mount Srikanth as seen from Dayara Bugyal. Photo by Veeru Rana

FAQs

Of course. Dayara Bugyal Trek in Uttarakhand is beginner-friendly. The difficulty level is moderately easy, making it suitable for those new to trekking.

Dayara Bugyal lies at 3,639 meters above sea level approximately 11,900 feet.

The temperature at Dayara Bugyal varies from one season to another. During summers, it can range from 20°C to 5°C, while in winters, it can drop to as low as -10°C.

Dayara Bugyal is located in Uttarakhand State in India. The starting point of this trek lies approximately 180 kilometers away from Dehradun.

Yes, Dayara Bugyal experiences snowfall during the winter months. It can both be exciting as well as challenging.

While altitude sickness might not be a real concern during the Dayara Bugyal Trek, you must be very careful because safety is the first priority. Our destination lies at an altitude of approximately 11,900 feet above sea level. Altitude sickness is not prone at such altitude but you are advised to inform your trek leader if you face any symptoms.

Jolly Grant Airport, also known as Dehradun Airport, is the nearest airport to Dayara Bugyal. It is located approximately 25 kilometers from Dehradun.

Camping is the dream of many trekkers but you should be aware of the fact that camping is not permitted in the Bugyals (high-altitude meadows). This law is believed to be active to preserve their fragile ecosystem.

“Bugyal” is a term used in the Indian Himalayas to refer to high-altitude meadows or pasturelands. Dayara Bugyal is known for its lush bugyals.

Every campsite during this trek features dry pit toilets. You must carry your own toilet papers and hygiene essentials.

Uttarkashi is the nearest ATM spot you can find during this trek. If you are looking to withdraw cash from the bank, it is the last stop where you can do so.

Raithal, the starting point of Dayara Bugyal Trek, is also the last point for charging your gadgets. You must carry your own power banks or extra batteries. Trekking mostly comes with the activities like photography and videography, so it is advised to carry extra power banks and charge them in Raithal before you head towards Dayara Top.

Dayara Bugyal offers an unforgettable snow trekking experience, making it one of the most picturesque trekking spots in winter. As you embark on this beginner-friendly trail, you’ll find yourself walking over snow, navigating snow-laden trails, and hiking through snow-covered forests that feel like a true winter wonderland. The expansive meadows of Dayara are fully covered in a white blanket of snow, offering breathtaking views of snow-capped Himalayan peaks such as Mt. Srikanth, Gangotri, DKD, and the iconic Mt. Bandarpunch—making it a perfect winter trek for snowfall lovers.

From December to February, the coldest months of the year, this trek provides an unparalleled opportunity to witness snowfall while enjoying the thrill of hiking snowy trails, crossing frozen water streams, and braving the refreshing winter winds. With temperatures averaging around sub-zero levels and the lowest temperatures occurring at higher altitudes, it is particularly appealing to adventure trekkers.

To tackle the variation in climatic conditions, it’s important to be equipped with proper gear such as trekking pole, sturdy hiking boots, jacket, etc. This trek offers a perfect balance of adventure and beauty, providing an unmatched walk in paradise. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned trekker, the Dayara Bugyal Winter Trek promises an experience filled with unforgettable memories.

Yes, Dayara Bugyal Trek is perfect for all age groups, and we have often seen 7-year-old children on this trail walking with ease as if they were locals of the region. It is a moderately easy trek with no significant difficulties to deal with, such as high altitude sickness, terrain challenges, or navigation issues. Obviously, it is a mountain trek, and dealing with challenges like sickness, difficult terrain, and other factors is common, but it’s completely manageable, which is why this trek is perfectly suitable for families with children.

If you’re looking for a private holiday package for the Dayara Bugyal Trek, we provide our guests with an option for tailor-made adventure holidays in the Uttarakhand Himalayas. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a group of friends, or a family, you can opt for your personalized trekking program. This option will allow you to enhance the quality of essential services of facilities such as accommodation, transportation, meals, guides or add-ons for any other requirements. Take a look at the features that make a customized tour package different from a ready-made plan for the trek.

Itinerary: Design your itinerary instead of following a pre-designed one. This will allow you to experience more sightseeing options and activities. Our travel experts can help you with this, or you can provide an itinerary that best suits your requirements.
Transportation: We provide you with a well-maintained, neat & clean vehicle of your choice (Swift/Ertiga/Innova/Tempo Traveler) to travel from Dehradun to Raithal Base and back. This transport service will be dedicated only to your group.
Accommodation: We provide comfortable & cozy homestay accommodation in Raithal, and during the trek, you will be provided with the best camp stay (A-Shape/North Face/Mountain Hardware).
Meals: For an unparalleled trekking experience, the meal plan is a core factor of service inclusions. You can provide your own meal routine and list of items to be included/excluded, ensuring they best suit your requirements.
Equipment: Like the standard package, there will be neat & clean equipment, but in dynamic packaging, you can add extras such as air mattresses, air pillows, inner liners, upgraded sleeping bags, trekking poles, hiking boots, extra oxygen cylinders, etc.
Private Group: Switching from a group departure to a private one is mostly preferred by families and trekkers who want a personalized experience of hiking in the mountains. No other participants will be added to your group. We offer you the option to have a dedicated group exclusively just for you, with enhanced services or the same services as a standard package.

The package cost of the Dayara Bugyal Trek varies from INR 6,000 to INR 12,000, depending on the itinerary, group size, service inclusions (stay, transportation, meals, trek essentials, etc.), and the time of the year (off-season or on-season) you are planning for trekking.

A local tour operator and listed as a certified service provider by Uttarakhand Tourism, offers the Dayara Bugyal Trek Package (4D/3N) with transportation (Dehradun to Dehradun) for INR 6,999.

With the 4D/3N itinerary, the package has essential services with inclusive of transportation, accommodation, meals, certified guide or experienced trek leaders, local sightseeing options, trail permit, and activities. As an on-ground tour operator, we have expertise in making arrangements and handling logistics to provide an unparalleled experience for our guests. To make your trekking experience as convenient and enjoyable as possible, our travel experts and dedicated support staff are available 24/7 to help you with any queries or issues related to the trek.

The Dayara Bugyal Trek typically takes 4 days to complete. As per the regular itinerary, you will cover 4-5 kilometers trekking distances on a per-day basis. However, It is also possible to finish this trek within 1 or 2 days, depending on your physical fitness. Additionally, if you wish to spend more time in the lap of nature, the duration of the trek can be extended to 5–6 days or more.

Trek Reviews

One of the best company for trekking. Loved the food and the guides are very cooperative and friendly Overall the trip to Dayara bugyal trek was very awesome.

Bhuwan A

Thank you “Himalayan dreamtreks” for making our Dayara Bugyal trek so great. Specifically the Gui campsite, best of all others Company operating on that trail. Thank you our guide Sushil ji for all support. See you soon on our next trek again.

Soumya Ghosh

We did Dayara Bugyal Trek with Himalayan Dream Treks from 21st-24th Dec and it was an awesome experience. Both our Trek guides Meenakshi and Ankit were friendly yet very professional in their job. They ensured that everyone completed the Trek safely and without any inconvience. Food, Tents, sleeping bags, homestay everything was of good quality and within our budget. II would recommend Himalayan Dream Treks to anyone looking for a complete trekking package.